* [[Isla de Culebrita]] Lies (approx. 18*19N, 65*13.6W) just NE of the entrance to Ensenada Honda. Protected anchorage at approx. 18*19.2N, 65*13.8W in Bahia de Tortuga. "Washing machine" pool on NE corner of the bay hidden in the rocks. CAREFUL: when the surf's up it's UP! Also an abandoned light house tops the island and is well worth the hike: what a view! But, spray on mucho repellant or suffer the itches later. Wonderful snorkeling and swimming.

* [[Isla de Culebrita]] Lies (approx. 18*19N, 65*13.6W) just NE of the entrance to Ensenada Honda. Protected anchorage at approx. 18*19.2N, 65*13.8W in Bahia de Tortuga. "Washing machine" pool on NE corner of the bay hidden in the rocks. CAREFUL: when the surf's up it's UP! Also an abandoned light house tops the island and is well worth the hike: what a view! But, spray on mucho repellant or suffer the itches later. Wonderful snorkeling and swimming.

Revision as of 06:59, 1 October 2011

Culebra

Overview

Culebra is a popular weekend tourist destination for Mainland Puerto Ricans, Americans and residents of Vieques. Because of the "arid" nature of the island there is no run-off from rivers or streams resulting in very clear waters around the archipelago.

Flamenco Beach, Culebra, Spanish Virgin Islands

Culebra has many beautiful beaches including Flamenco Beach (Playa Flamenco). The beach extends for a mile of white coral sand and is framed beautifully by arid tree-covered hills. The beach is also protected by the Department of Natural and Environmental Resources as a Marine Wildlife Reserve.

Cruising the region

Great sailing in the Spanish Virgin Islands. Winds mostly from the E and NE at a steady 10+ knots. Watch for reefs and fish pots, mosquitoes, and sun burn. People are generally friendly, but remember this is a third world area in State's clothing. Always start a conversation with asking how the person is doing, in Spanish if possible: "Buenos dias. Como estas?" Then ask your question.

Charts

Submit the chart details that are required for safe navigation.

Radio Nets

None

Routes to/from

Most popular is from Fajadro on "The Big Island" less than 20 miles to the W. Other approaches are from Vieques to the SSW and St. Thomas from the NNE. All are likewise less than 20 nm away.

Approach

From the W (Fajardo and Vieques) there generally are two approaches: straight into Dewey on the W shore (ferry dock side) 18*17.90N, 65*18.65W, or from the E into Ensenada Honda (lighted and marked entrance at 18*17.33N, 65*16,35W). There is a connecting canal with a very low, immovable bridge between E and W, as it were, Dewey.

Check-in facilities

Call Customs and Boarder Patrol if you are coming in from other than "The Big Island" or Vieques.

Customs & Immigration

Immigration
Call Customs and Boarder Patrol if you are coming in from other than "The Big Island" or Vieques. This includes St. Thomas and St. Croix.

Marinas & Yacht Clubs

Anchorages

Dewey on either side, although the Ensenada Honda side is most popular.

Dakity just inside the entrance to Ensenada Honda and just behind the reef has mooring balls, good breezes and light insect infestations. But, it can a long, wet ride to town.

Bahia Cabras on the E shore about 1/3 in. This is the "waiting room" for the mangroves.

Health & Security

Same as PR: You can drink the water (from El Junque, by the way). Lock your dingy just to be extra cautious. No need to lock your boat in the anchorages/mooring fields. Don't leave anything lying around.

Things to do ashore

List places of interest, tours, eateries, etc.

Marine stores

In Dewey there are two hardware stores, one downtown just off the S side of the connecting canal having limited marine stores.

Isla de Culebrita Lies (approx. 18*19N, 65*13.6W) just NE of the entrance to Ensenada Honda. Protected anchorage at approx. 18*19.2N, 65*13.8W in Bahia de Tortuga. "Washing machine" pool on NE corner of the bay hidden in the rocks. CAREFUL: when the surf's up it's UP! Also an abandoned light house tops the island and is well worth the hike: what a view! But, spray on mucho repellant or suffer the itches later. Wonderful snorkeling and swimming.